8 Natural Wonders Unique to the Granite State That Should Be on Everyone’s New Hampshire Bucket List

It's easy to find beauty throughout New Hampshire. Whether it's the woods and forests or the lakes and rivers, the natural resources we have here are among the best in New England. While the nature we find just outside our front doors in New Hampshire is pretty fantastic, the natural wonders that deserve a little searching are extra special. The things on this list are special, and we think you'll agree that we're lucky to have them right here!

1. Cathedral Ledge, North Conway

Sure, there are plenty of gorgeous views in New England, but what you'll see from Cathedral Ledge is pretty special. We love visiting New Hampshire nature!

2. The Flume Gorge, Franconia Notch State Park

One of the most visited natural wonders in New Hampshire is this beauty in Franconia Notch State Park. This 800-foot-deep gorge at the base of Mount Liberty was formed almost 200 million years ago. It sat undiscovered until 1808, when it was found by a 93-year-old woman. Nature in New Hampshire never looked this good!

3. The Kancamagus Highway

The Kanc might not qualify as an actual natural wonder given that it dates back to the 1600s and was created by humans. But! There's plenty of nature to take in along the way, and access to these views is its own kind of natural wonder. It makes nature in New Hampshire look so good!

4. Arethusa Falls, White Mountains

As one of the state's largest waterfalls, Arethusa Falls is a beauty to see. The 140-foot drop is dramatic, and each season brings a completely different look. You can visit by hiking the 2.8-mile out-and-back Bemis Brook Trail. It is easily one of our favorite natural wonders in New Hampshire.

5. Emerald Pool, Chatham

This perfectly clear swimming hole is great on a summer day, but visiting when it's cold still offers plenty of beauty. You can find it just off of the Baldface Loop Trail. It’s a must-see and the top of any New Hampshire natural wonders list.

6. Lakes of the Clouds, Sargent's Purchase

Lakes of the Clouds requires a bit of effort to reach, but if you can do it the payoff is well worth it! The hike to reach it will bring you about 5,000 feet above sea level. The series of lakes between Mount Washington and Mount Monroe is a unique part of the landscape, making hikers feel as though they've entered another world. It’s one of the top natural wonders in New Hampshire.

7. Sculptured Rocks Natural Area, Groton

There are 272 acres of things to see in the Sculptured Rocks Natural Area. The Cockermouth River created the smooth rocks and pools over centuries. Today, there are pools that are perfect for swimming, but be ready for chilly temps even in the summer! New Hampshire nature shines here.

8. Lost River Gorge, Woodstock

There's a lot to see at Lost River Gorge, and it's worth carving out a day to do it. A slow-moving glacier and a stream formed the area. The results are walls of rock that tower over visitors. You can see it using the network of stairs and the boardwalk that has been built. Altogether, it's about .75 miles. The boardwalk and stairs are not wheelchair-accessible and might not be ideal for those who aren't physically fit.

Ready to make a day of it? This natural wonders road trip will show you New Hampshire as you've never seen it before!